The Empowering Role of 3D Printing in Responding to the Pandemic: An Analysis

Abstract

Abstract

3D printing is well-suited to address the shortage of critical materials in a health emergency because of its potential to swiftly produce customized and cost-effective products locally without requiring expensive infrastructure and specialized skills. This article undertakes an analysis of the role of two different actors – i.e., common citizens and the public sector – in terms of their use of 3D printing in response to COVID-19 with a key focus on how to make more efficient use of 3D printing to deal with future emergencies. The analysis in this study, in respect of the empowering role of 3D printing in responding to the health emergency, draws upon a wide range of sources which include peer-reviewed journal articles, media reports, real-world examples, quotations from stakeholders, and blogs. The findings demonstrate that there is a need for a more systematic, organized, and inclusive approach to fully leverage the use of 3D printing when dealing with a future health emergency. Concerted policy efforts must be made at the global level to bridge the digital divide between low- and middle-income and high-income countries to empower a tremendous amount of human capital to use 3D printing for the common good of humanity.

      Keywords: additive manufacturing, COVID-19, Coronavirus, 3D printing, the maker community

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